Bryan Mbeumo inspired Manchester United to a 2-1 comeback victory over Atletico Madrid in Stockholm, scoring both goals as the Red Devils lifted the Snapdragon Cup ahead of the new Premier League season.
After falling behind in the opening minutes, United controlled much of the contest but had to wait until the second half to turn the game around. Mbeumo converted a penalty before adding the winner with 15 minutes remaining to seal victory in what was their toughest pre-season test so far.
Bryan Mbeumo’s brace leads Manchester United’s comeback
Manchester United entered the match having won one and lost one of their previous preseason friendlies before facing Atletico Madrid at the Strawberry Arena. Michael Carrick selected a strong starting lineup that closely resembled the side expected to begin the Premier League campaign against Hull City later this month.
Amad Diallo started in attack ahead of Joshua Zirkzee, while Mason Mount and Andrey Santos once again impressed together in midfield. Youri Tielemans did not travel after recently returning for pre-season, as he was not yet considered match fit.
Despite a difficult opening, United recovered strongly after the break. Bryan Mbeumo scored from the penalty spot to level the match before finishing off Jack Fletcher’s assist later in the second half to complete his brace and secure the Snapdragon Cup.
Atlético Madrid strike first in Stockholm friendly
Atletico Madrid made the perfect start when Arnau Ortiz’s whipped cross evaded everyone inside the penalty area and found the back of the net after just five minutes, leaving Tom Heaton and Harry Maguire unable to prevent the opening goal.
Manchester United responded by creating numerous opportunities before half-time but were unable to find an equaliser. Patrick Dorgu repeatedly caused problems for young defender Jorge Dominguez, while Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro, and Mbeumo all failed to convert headed chances.
Luke Shaw came closest with a powerful volley that forced Jan Oblak into an impressive save. At the other end, Heaton denied Ortiz a second goal late in the first half to keep the deficit at just one.
Shea Lacey and Jack Fletcher make key contributions
United equalised early in the second period after Shea Lacey was brought down inside the penalty area, allowing Mbeumo to convert from the spot. Lacey almost marked his own performance with a goal shortly afterwards, but Sami Esquivel denied him with a save.
As the tempo slowed, clear-cut chances became limited, but United eventually found the decisive moment. Jack Fletcher surged down the right wing before setting up Mbeumo, who finished to put his side in front with a quarter of an hour remaining.
The afternoon also marked a memorable occasion for JJ Gabriel, who replaced Mbeumo to make his senior debut in front of the travelling Manchester United supporters.
Manchester United prepare for PSG after victory
Atlético Madrid pushed for a late equaliser and came agonisingly close when Morten Hjulmand struck one post before Rodrigo Mendoza headed against the other. Despite those opportunities, United held on to complete the comeback.
Manchester United will continue their pre-season preparations in a week’s time when they face Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg.